I Choose to Speak Up: A Colorful Picture Book About Bullying, Discrimination, or Harassment
#6 of 19 in Teacher and Therapist Toolbox: I Choose Series
on Goodreads (34)
What’s inside...
In the rhyming story 'I Choose to Speak Up', children learn how to respond when they witness or experience bullying, harassment, or discrimination. The book teaches children three solutions - asking the bully to stop, seeking help from an adult, and walking away. The story emphasizes the importance of using one's voice to speak up for oneself and others, with colorful illustrations and rhythmic rhymes to engage young readers. Developed alongside teachers and therapists, the book is part of a series focused on social emotional learning (SEL) and aims to empower children to handle difficult situations, build confidence, and understand the power of their choices in responding to negativity. The book also underscores the message that discrimination is intolerable and promotes awareness of emotions and proactive behavior.
Discussion points
How did the characters in the story feel when they were treated unfairly? Can you relate to their feelings?
What are some ways the characters could have responded to bullying or discrimination?
Why do you think it's important to speak up when we see someone being treated badly?
How can we help friends who might be experiencing bullying or harassment?
What would you do if you saw someone being treated unfairly at school or in the park?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the conversation in a comfortable setting, ensuring the child feels safe to express their thoughts and emotions.
Use examples from the book to illustrate points, making it easier for your child to relate and understand.
Encourage your child to share personal experiences, if any, related to the themes discussed in the book.
Reinforce the idea that it's okay to have feelings and discuss them openly.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage continued dialogue on tough subjects like these.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of speaking up against bullying
Explanation: The narrative follows the protagonist who witnesses bullying and decides to speak up, highlighting the power of using one’s voice to oppose wrongdoing.
Real-World Application: Children learn to take action against bullying by informing teachers or trusted adults whenever they see someone being bullied, fostering a safer school environment.
Example Lesson: The value of empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through interactions between characters, the book showcases how understanding others' feelings and perspectives can discourage discrimination and harassment.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice empathy by being kind and considerate towards their peers, which can lead to more inclusive and respectful interactions.
Example Lesson: The significance of diversity and acceptance
Explanation: The story includes characters from various backgrounds, teaching children to appreciate and celebrate differences among people.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace diversity by making friends from different cultures and standing against discriminatory attitudes.
Example Lesson: Building confidence to stand against wrongs
Explanation: The protagonist’s journey from witnessing to taking action exemplifies how self-assurance can be developed when standing up for what is right.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to be confident in their own values and to act upon them when they witness any form of injustice.
Example Lesson: The role of community support in overcoming challenges
Explanation: As the protagonist speaks up, they gain support from others around them, emphasizing the importance of community in battling societal issues like bullying.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of supporting each other and how collective actions can lead to positive changes in their community.